Pressure washing a deck in the UK requires careful consideration to avoid damaging the wood. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the key steps, technical specifications, and expert tips to ensure a safe and effective cleaning process for your deck.
Precautions and Preparation
Before starting the pressure washing process, it’s crucial to take the necessary precautions and prepare the deck properly. Begin by checking the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific decking material, as some may not recommend pressure washing or have specific requirements. Next, clear the deck of all furniture, ornaments, and debris to ensure a clear surface for cleaning. Use a stiff broom to sweep away any loose dirt, leaves, or other materials from the deck surface. Finally, pre-treat the deck by applying a wood-specific cleaner or detergent, allowing it to soak for 5-10 minutes to soften thick dirt or grime.
Setting Up the Pressure Washer
Selecting the right pressure washer is essential for effective and safe deck cleaning. Choose a pressure washer with a maximum pressure output of 150 bar (2,175 PSI) to avoid applying too much pressure, which can damage the wood. Attach a fan nozzle or rotary attachment to create a wide spray pattern, which helps to distribute the pressure evenly. Set the pressure washer to a medium to high power setting, adjusting the power based on the level of dirt on the deck. For lightly soiled decks, a medium setting of around 500-600 PSI is recommended.
Pressure Washing Techniques
When pressure washing the deck, maintain a safe distance of at least 30-40 centimeters (12-16 inches) from the deck surface to avoid damaging the wood. Use a sweeping motion, moving the nozzle parallel to the wood grain to clean the deck evenly. Avoid lingering in one spot for too long, as this can cause uneven cleaning and streaks. Start cleaning from the highest points of the deck, such as railings and posts, and work your way down to the decking to prevent dirty runoff from soiling cleaned areas.
Additional Tips
For tight spaces, such as corners and edges, use a brush attachment with a low-pressure setting to gently scrub the area. Avoid using pointed nozzle attachments, as they can concentrate the water pressure into a single stream, which can gouge or etch the decking. Load the pressure washer with a wood-specific cleaning solution to ensure the best results, and thoroughly rinse the deck with clean water to remove any remaining dirt or cleaning solution.
Recommended Chemicals and Techniques
When it comes to cleaning solutions, use cleaners specifically designed for wood decking, such as those containing UV protection and natural wax components. For a more gentle approach, you can try home remedies like a mixture of warm water, cornstarch, and bicarbonate of soda to create a cleaning paste. Additionally, power scrubbers with fine bristles can be used to reach into the grooves of the wood surface and increase cleaning power.
Technical Specifications
The pressure settings for wooden decks should start at the lowest setting, around 500 PSI, and gradually increase pressure only if needed. Softwoods may only require 500-600 PSI, while hardwoods can tolerate more, potentially up to 1200 PSI. Choose a fan tip with a 40-60 degree spread for even cleaning, and maintain a consistent 30-40 centimeters (12-16 inches) between the nozzle and the decking. Hold the nozzle at a 45-degree angle to lift dirt with reduced impact on the surface.
By following these guidelines and taking the necessary precautions, you can effectively clean your deck without damaging the wood. Remember to always consult the manufacturer’s instructions and consider the specific requirements of your decking material to ensure the best results.
References:
1. Trex Protect. (n.d.). Can You Pressure Wash Decking? Retrieved from https://trexprotect.com/uk/blog/why-you-shouldnt-pressure-wash-your-deck/
2. Homebase. (2022). How To Clean Decking | Patio & Decking Power Wash Tips. Retrieved from https://www.homebase.co.uk/ideas-advice/garden-and-outdoor/patio-decking-and-fencing/how-to-pressure-wash-a-patio-or-decking/
3. Cladco Decking. (n.d.). How to Pressure Wash Wood Decking (4 Key Steps & Tips). Retrieved from https://www.cladcodecking.co.uk/blog/post/how-to-pressure-wash-wood-deck
4. Kärcher International. (n.d.). Cleaning wooden decking: These tips will help. Retrieved from https://www.kaercher.com/int/home-garden/know-how/cleaning-wooden-decking.html
5. KJC Drainage. (n.d.). How to Pressure Wash Wood Decking. Retrieved from https://kjcdrainage.co.uk/how-to-pressure-wash-decking/